Digital Exclusives
Content from the editors of Food Technology magazine that is exclusive to IFT.org.
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How Causal AI Is Transforming Product Research
Jason Cohen, CEO and founder of Simulacra, explains how causal artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetic data tools can support faster, more statistically robust insight generation in consumer and product research.
Almonds as a Case Study for AI-Driven Compound Discovery
Brightseed’s metabolomic profiling of almonds demonstrates how artificial intelligence (AI) can help researchers and product developers uncover new bioactives and explore emerging health areas.
How AI Is Rewriting the Food Innovation Timeline
Oisin Hanrahan, CEO and co-founder of Keychain, discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating development and reshaping how brands compete.
When Color Meets Flavor
The shift away from artificial additives is fueling innovation with ingredients that deliver both natural color and flavor.
GLP-1 Medications Force Food Industry Rethink
In a sponsored session at IFT FIRST, Aptean’s Todd Austin and Tyler Bray explored how weight-loss drugs are altering consumer behavior and what food companies must do to adapt.
The Complex Reality of ‘Clean’ and Shelf-Stable Foods
In an IFT FIRST Hot Topics Studio session, experts from PepsiCo and Glanbia Performance Nutrition examined consumer perceptions, technological realities, and the balancing act behind clean-label, shelf-stable products.
UPFs and Hyper-Palatability Under the Microscope
At an IFT FIRST Hot Topic Studio session, Purdue’s Richard Mattes examined whether ultra-processed foods are designed to be “irresistible” and why unclear definitions complicate the science.
Building Food as Medicine Into the Health System
In an IFT FIRST Hot Topics Studio session, The Rockefeller Foundation’s Dana Thomas and IFT’s Anna Rosales explored how to move food as medicine programs from pilots to scalable, insurer-funded solutions.
Congratulations to the 2025 Division Competition Winners
IFT divisions announce winners of the oral competition research paper competitions, hackathons, and more.
Tariffs and Trade Policy Pose Ongoing Risks
At IFT FIRST’s Solutions Showcase, experts detailed how tariffs are reshaping supply chains, raising costs, and challenging food companies to stay transparent and flexible.
Policy Changes Put Food Innovation Pipelines to the Test
At IFT FIRST’s Hot Topics Studio, experts outlined how GRAS scrutiny, post-market surveillance, and state actions are reshaping product development.
Navigating Regulatory Shifts in Food Color Reformulation
As synthetic dyes are phased out, experts at IFT FIRST’s Hot Topics Studio shared strategies for transitioning to natural colors while managing performance, cost, and supply challenges.
Plantible Takes Top Honors in Pitch Competition
Crush Dynamics and RedLeaf Biologics achieve runner-up status.
Fighting Food Misinformation
To counter science denial, lead with empathy, communication experts advise.
Appetite Redefined
As GLP-1 drugs reshape eating behavior, panelists at IFT FIRST explore what desire, hunger, and satisfaction mean now.
Supply Chains Kinked by Tariffs
COVID-era disruptions, shifting trade policies, and environmental extremes are forcing food companies to build in flexibility.
From the Expo Floor Day Two
From plant-based performance to precision fermentation, day two featured bold prototypes and sustainable solutions shaping the future of food.
AI Acceleration Will Redefine the Next Five Years
To stay ahead of the AI curve, IFT FIRST keynoter Steve Brown urges food innovators to experiment, stay curious, and double down on what makes us human.
A VC Perspective on Health-Driven Food Innovation
PeakBridge, a Startup Pavilion sponsor, sees massive potential in science-backed, scalable solutions for food, health, and digital convergence.
Driving Reformulation With Science and Strategy
A keynote panel at IFT FIRST explores how public health goals, sensory science, and policy pressure are influencing healthier formulations.
Self-Care Shapes the Flavor Landscape
In a trend-focused presentation at IFT FIRST, Innova reveals how wellness, authenticity, and adventurous tastes are redefining the flavor landscape.
From the Expo Floor Day One
Bright colors, bold flavors, and new tech take center stage in this first look at the IFT FIRST Expo floor.
MAHA Movement Sparks Industry Concern
Hot Topics Studio panelists warn that RFK Jr.’s nutrition agenda may sideline science in favor of sound bites.
Adapting to Food Additive Challenges
Panelists break down the key issues confronting the food industry in an environment of policy uncertainty.
